Acral Lick Granuloma in Dogs
Key takeaways
Acral Lick Granuloma (ALG) in dogs describes skin injury to the extremities as a result of continuous licking.
- ALGs appear as pink, moist, hairless lumps or sores
- ALGs are usually the result of an underlying disease such as allergies, joint pain, or a behavioral disorder
- Excessive licking perpetuates the condition by introducing moisture, abrasion, and bacteria to the open wound
- Investigation focuses on detection of the underlying disease and may involve physical examination, laboratory testing, and diagnostic imaging
- Treatment options include anti-inflammatories, allergy medications, and parasite-control products
- Prognosis relies on effective treatment of the underlying condition
- ALGs are persistent and difficult to resolve, usually requiring several weeks to months of treatment, and recurrence is common
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A closer look: Acral Lick Granuloma in Dogs
Most ALGs are found on the dorsal (top) part of the forelimbs and front feet, as this is an accessible place for recurrent licking. Even with effective treatment, ALGs often recur.
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Risk factors
ALGs are common, particularly in older dogs. Dogs with underlying joint pain or focal areas of itchiness sometimes have ALGs associated with those regions.
Dogs that are understimulated may develop repetitive behaviors such as licking, which can lead to ALGs.
Some ALGs respond to treatment at home, but many require veterinary attention to identify and treat the underlying disease.
ALGs are not life-threatening, but can be a persistent and distressing condition in dogs.
Possible causes
The mechanism behind ALGs cannot always be identified.
Main symptoms
ALG lesions are typically hairless, pink or red, and may be surrounded by brown (saliva) staining.
Testing and diagnosis
Investigation of ALGs involves:
- Physical examination
- Cytology
- Bacterial culture
- Biopsy
- Blood work and X-rays to identify underlying disease
Steps to Recovery
ALGs are persistent, but prolonged courses of antibiotics and steroids, alongside prevention of licking, often improves ALGs over a period of several weeks or months.
Elizabethan collars and similar restraint devices are used only as a last resort and in conjunction with treatment targeting the underlying condition.
Bandaging is not recommended as a sole form of treatment for ALGs because it does not address the underlying condition and may worsen secondary infections.
Ultimately, ALGs are frustrating to treat, difficult to resolve, and often recur.
Prevention
ALGs are sometimes prevented by proper control of underlying allergies or hormonal conditions. Other cases respond to environmental changes such as enrichment.
Is Acral Lick Granuloma in Dogs common?
ALG is a common condition. It occurs at any age, but is more common in middle-aged to older dogs.
Typical Treatment
Treatment options include:
- Parasite control
- Allergy medications
- Antibiotics
- Steroids (topical or oral)
- Pain relief for arthritis
- Elizabethan collar to prevent licking
- Behavioral modification, such as by environmental enrichment
- Behavioral medication
- Surgical removal of ALG
